Cyclone Separator Radial Pipe Arrangement Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cyclone separators have complex shapes and require a long separation chamber, leading to tolerance issues and a less compact design.
Innovation Solution
A cyclone separator with a pipe arrangement comprising a first and second pipe portion extending radially into the separation chamber, a blocking wall, and openings to induce a spiral cyclone motion and axial returning flow, allowing for a more compact and less complex construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional insert with complex shape is used to redirect incoming flow and induce cyclone motion, then the cyclone separator can effectively separate non-liquid matter from liquid, but the separation chamber needs to be quite long and the construction becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional single complex insert is segmented into multiple simple pipe portions (first pipe portion, second pipe portion, third pipe portion) that perform different functions. Each pipe portion is simpler in construction but collectively they achieve the same cyclone induction effect, reducing manufacturing complexity and tolerance issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe arrangement serves multiple functions: it redirects incoming flow, induces cyclone motion, and provides structural support within the separation chamber. By integrating these functions into simple cylindrical pipe portions rather than complex shaped inserts, the design reduces overall device complexity while maintaining separation effectiveness.
2Reliability
If a traditional insert with complex shape is used, then cyclone motion can be induced, but the separation chamber becomes quite long which reduces compactness
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a long axial insert design, the pipe arrangement utilizes radial positioning of pipe portions around the central axis. The first, second, and third pipe portions are positioned at different radial locations and angles, inducing cyclone motion through a more compact three-dimensional configuration that reduces the required separation chamber length.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe portions are configured to direct flow in curved paths that efficiently induce cyclone motion. The angular positioning and curved flow redirection of the pipe portions create effective spiral flow patterns in a shorter distance compared to linear axial inserts, reducing the separation chamber length while maintaining cyclone induction capability.
3Shape
If welded and/or laser-cut bent sheets of metal are used to manufacture the insert, then the complex shape can be achieved, but tolerance issues such as roundness occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the expensive, complex welded and laser-cut insert with simpler pipe portions that can be manufactured using standard piping processes. These simpler components are easier to manufacture with consistent tolerances and can be assembled together to achieve the required geometric configuration, improving manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple simple pipe portions are merged/assembled to create the functional equivalent of a single complex insert. By combining several cylindrical pipe portions at different positions and angles, the system achieves the required flow redirection and cyclone induction without the tolerance issues associated with manufacturing a single complex shaped component.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed design achieves a more compact cyclone separator with improved manufacturing and mounting convenience, while maintaining effective separation of non-liquid matter from liquid.
Implementation Method 1
The cyclone motion of the liquid generates centrifugal forces in the liquid flow, whereby particles become separated
Implementation Method 2
liquid received through the pipe inlet is diverted by the blocking wall to exit the pipe arrangement through said first opening
Implementation Method 3
the first opening is oriented such that the liquid exiting through the first opening is caused to flow in a spiral cyclone motion in the separation chamber along the circumferentially extending inner wall of the vessel
Implementation Method 4
the second opening is oriented to receive the liquid flowing in said axial returning motion so that the liquid flowing in said axial returning motion re-enters the pipe arrangement by entering through the second opening into the second pipe portion
Data Source
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AI summary
A cyclone separator, comprising a vessel and a pipe arrangement. The pipe arrangement comprises a pipe inlet, a pipe outlet, and a blocking wall located between the pipe inlet and the pipe outlet, preventing at least a major part of the liquid from flowing directly from a first pipe portion to a second pipe portion. A first opening is provided in the first pipe portion between the pipe inlet and the blocking wall, and a second opening is provided in the second pipe portion. Liquid received through the pipe inlet is diverted by the blocking wall to exit through the first opening. The liquid then flows in a spiral cyclone motion in the separation chamber so as to separate non-liquid matter from the liquid. Liquid re-enters into the pipe arrangement through the second opening, enabling at least a part of the re-entered liquid to leave the arrangement through the pipe outlet.